Gene Simmons Performs Ace Frehley Written Kiss Songs Live
Gene Simmons performed songs written by former Ace Frehley live for the first time during a recent solo band performance, marking a rare moment in Kiss-related live history.
The performance took place on February 20, 2026, at L’Auberge Casino Resort in Lake Charles, Louisiana, during a show by the Gene Simmons Band. According to published setlists and concert reports, Simmons debuted the Frehley-penned Kiss tracks “Strange Ways” and “Rocket Ride”, neither of which he had previously performed live in any documented setting.
While Simmons has long included Frehley-associated songs such as “Cold Gin” in his sets, both “Strange Ways” and “Rocket Ride” have historically been absent from his live repertoire. “Strange Ways” originally appeared on Kiss’ 1974 self-titled debut, while “Rocket Ride” was featured on the band’s 1977 album Love Gun. Both tracks are closely associated with Frehley’s songwriting and guitar style.
Setlist records from the Lake Charles show confirm that the two songs were integrated into a broader Kiss-heavy performance that also included staples such as “Deuce,” “Shout It Out Loud,” “War Machine,” “Domino,” and “Calling Dr. Love.” The inclusion of multiple Frehley-written or Frehley-led songs made his influence a clear thematic element of the night.
The Gene Simmons Band lineup for the performance featured Simmons alongside guitarist and vocalist Jason Walker, guitarist Brent Woods, and drummer Brian Tichy. The group has been touring in a stripped-down format that allows Simmons to explore deeper selections from the Kiss catalog outside the constraints of a full Kiss production.
The performance was quickly noted by fans and rock media outlets, with many pointing out that Simmons’ decision to finally perform these particular songs represented a notable shift in how he approaches Frehley-era material. While Kiss’ farewell tour concluded in 2023, Simmons has continued to reinterpret the band’s legacy through solo appearances and special performances.
Related Stories
Pete Townshend Signs Nine-Figure Deal With Primary Wave for Name, Image, and Music Rights
Pete Townshend has reached a nine-figure deal with Primary Wave covering his name, image, likeness, and certain music rights, adding to an earlier Spirit Music
Elton John Announces New Album at Glenn Gould Prize Ceremony in Toronto
Elton John surprised the crowd at the Great Canadian Casino Resort in Toronto by announcing a new album, completed despite a serious eye infection.
Jack Osbourne Says Ozzy Biopic Script Is Done, Eyes 2028 Release
Jack Osbourne confirms the Ozzy Osbourne biopic script is written and says the film will likely arrive in 2028, with a director search now underway.
Rolling Stones Unveil ‘In the Stars’ Video With De-Aged Deepfakes and Odessa A’zion
The Rolling Stones release the ‘In the Stars’ music video featuring deepfake de-aged versions of Jagger, Richards, and Wood alongside actress Odessa A’zion.
Bill Kreutzmann Celebrates 80th Birthday With a Two-and-a-Half-Hour Conga Jam
Grateful Dead drummer Bill Kreutzmann turned 80 on May 7, celebrating with a surprise beach house jam session featuring Hawaiian singer-songwriter Tavana.
Watch: Foo Fighters Pack Five Songs Into Their First-Ever NPR Tiny Desk Concert
Foo Fighters made their Tiny Desk debut at NPR headquarters, playing hits from The Colour and the Shape alongside new tracks from Your Favorite Toy.
Gregg Allman Documentary to Premiere at Savannah’s Lucas Theatre on June 17
Gregg Allman: The Music of My Soul gets a special premiere at Savannah’s Lucas Theatre on June 17, featuring live music, a Q&A, and a Big House Museum pop-up.
Ritchie Blackmore Confirms Christopher Cross Filled In for Him at 1970 Deep Purple Show
Ritchie Blackmore has confirmed that Christopher Cross stepped in for him during a 1970 Deep Purple show at the Jam Factory in San Antonio, Texas, ending
Julian Lennon Diagnosed With Coronary Heart Disease and Pre-Diabetes
Julian Lennon has revealed a coronary heart disease and pre-diabetic diagnosis, urging fans to get checked out early. He says he caught both conditions in time.